Women's Baseball World Cup: USA falls; Japan wins it all

A storm canceled the Opening Ceremony but the fans still stayed for the USA vs. Puerto Rico game. Retired Colonel Danny McKnight threw the opening pitch for the Women’s Baseball World Cup, in Viera, Fl.
Tim Shortt, FLORIDA TODAY

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Baseball star Ayami Sato, pitcher for Japan, is considered the world’s best female baseball player, according to Baseball America. Japan has won the championship for the last five years. Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. (Photo: TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY)Buy Photo

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Japan has won its sixth straight World Cup title, beating Chinese Taipei 6-0 in Friday night's final. Japan finished 9-0 in the tournament and has won its last 30 World Cup games, dating to 2010.

Ayami Sato, the MVP two seasons ago, fanned six in five innings before giving way to Akino Tanaka for the last six outs. They allowed six total hits.

Sato finished the tournament 3-0 with a 0.37 ERA in 19 innings. She locked up her third MVP honor.

Iori Miura and Yuki Kawabata each drove in two runs. Miura batted .409 in the tournament.

Day 10

Team USA missed its chance at the bronze medal Friday afternoon, falling to Canada 8-5 in 10 innings.

Canada scored five runs in the top of the 10th before USA scored twice in the bottom of the inning. Ashley Stephenson hit a big two-run single in the 10th for Canada.

The USA had tied the game 3-3 in the bottom of the seventh.

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Samantha Cobb of the USA makes a diving catch during Thursday's game against the Dominican Republic.(Photo: Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY)

Canada's Daphnee Gelinas homered and drove in four runs. She also had three hits. Allison Schroder got the win in relief.

Jade Gortarez and Malaika Underwood each had two hits for USA. Underwood's RBI double tied it in the seventh. Stacy Piagno pitched four innings in relief and was tagged with the loss.

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Megan Baltzell of the USA celebrates a home run with her teammate during Wednesday's game.(Photo: Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY)

Stats of the tournament

Fastest pitch: USA's starting pitcher Jade Gortarez 78.245 mph.

Exit velocity of hit: USA 's Megan Baltzell’s, 97.97 mph.

Farthest hit: USA's Megan Baltzell's home run 363 feet.

Home runs: There were six in the tournament, two by Baltzell

Leading hitter: Puerto Rico's Janiliz Rivera Cruz. .571

Most RBI: Iori Miura of Japan with 12 (Baltzell had 11)

Stolen bases: Cuba's Arianna Garcia Atencio with 9

Most hits: Australia's Taylah Welch, 15 (Baltzell had 13)

Slugging pct.: USA's Megan Baltzell, .885

Day 9

Japan clinched a spot in Friday night's final with a 10-0 rout of Venezuela on Thursday in a game delayed by some two hours after a lightning alert and thunderstorm.

The five-time reigning champs are 8-0 in the tournament and 29-0 in World Cup play.

They will face Chinese Taipei in the final after rallying from a four-run deficit to claim a 6-4 win over Canada on Thursday afternoon.

Canada will play Team USA on Friday at 1 p.m. in the bronze medal game.

The USA won 8-1 against the Dominican Republic Thursday night, scoring six runs in the first inning. The USA has posted a 7-1 overall record, but its only loss came against Chinese Taipei.

In Thursday's game, catcher Anna Kimbrell drove in two runs with a single, while Megan Baltzell went 2 for 4 and is batting .542 in the tournament. Kelsie Whitmore posted the win, and Laura Collins and Emily Tsujikawa finished off the three-hitter.

Day 8

The USA, coming off a 3-0 loss to mighty Japan, defeated Canada 5-1 Wednesday in the main stadium.

Jade Gortarez hit a three-run homer to lead the USA.

Megan Baltzell slammed her second homer of the tournament, a solo shot in the third that was one of her three hits. She's now 11 for 20 with 11 RBIs and eight runs in the tournament.

Martina Sementelli allowed just three hits in six innings before Meggie Meidlinger yielded one hit in the seventh.

Next up for the USA is a game against the Dominican Republic at 6 p.m. Thursday in the main stadium.

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Jade Gortarez of the USA rounds third base after hitting a three-run HR during Wednesday's game against Canada.(Photo: Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY)

Earlier Wednesday in the Super Round, Venezuela defeated the Dominican Republic 12-2 in six innings. Freymar Luisa Victoria Suniaga Serva drove in four runs to lead the rout, while Yohelis Colina Riera and Esquia Del Valle Rengel Lopez each drove in three.

Japan remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, holding on for a 2-1 win over a tough Chinese Taipei team. The game was delayed for 30 minutes due to weather conditions. Catcher Chihiro Funakoshi drove in both runs and relief pitcher Asaka Tsuru got the win by pitching four shutout innings while allowing four hits.

In the Consolation Round, Cuba whipped the Netherlands 10-1 as Maraisy Perez Vega pitched a five-hitter and Dayanna Batista Vega collected three hits and scored three runs.

Korea blasted Hong Kong 15-5 in a consolation game. Bitna Lee drove in four runs, while leadoff batter Heera Yeom had three hits, three RBI and scored three times.

Wednesday night, Australia downed Puerto Rico in the Consolation Round, as Taylah Welch went 4 for 5 with two RBI. She is now 15 for 26 with 10 RBI and eight runs in the tournament.

Reigning World Cup MVP Ayami Sato allowed one hit, a single by Megan Baltzell. Sato only struck out two. Iori Miura had the only RBI, on a sacrifice fly.

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Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0.(Photo: TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY)

Stacy Piagno took the loss. Japan put together six hits, scoring once in the first and adding two in the second. Only one run was earned.

Team USA, 4-2 overall, faces Canada on Wednesday night at 6 p.m. in the main stadium.

Other scores on Tuesday:

In the Super Round, Chinese Taipei continued its winning ways with a 2-1 eight-inning win against the Dominican Republic. Yu-Ying Hsieh went the distance, allowing four hits and two walks. Shih-Yun Lee drove in the winning run.

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Members of the Cuban team in the dugout during the 7th inning of the game. Sunday action of the 8-5 Hong Kong victory over Cuba in the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Championships being held in Viera, Fl.(Photo: TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY)

Also in the Super Round, Canada blanked Venezuela 5-0 as Amanda Asay fired a one-hit gem. Katherine Psota drove in two runs and Ashley Stephenson had a pair of hits and scored twice.

In the Consolation Round, Cuba bounced back from its loss to Hong Kong by stopping Korea 7-4. Marielbys Ferro Varela had two hits and two RBI.

Also in the Consolation Round, Australia hammered Netherlands 18-0 in five innings. Chelsea Forkin went 4 for 4 with four runs and five RBI, while Taylah Welch drove in three runs with three hits. The Netherlands managed two hits.

Another Consolation Round game saw Puerto Rico bust out with a 12-6 win over Hong Kong.

Tuesday's schedule of games

Super Round (main stadium)

Chinese Taipei 2, Dominican Republic 1 (8 inn.)

Canada 5, Venezuela 0

Japan 3, USA 0

Consolation Round (Field II)

Cuba 7, Korea 4

Australia 18, Netherlands 0 (5 inn.)

Puerto Rico 12, Hong Kong 6

Wednesday's schedule of games

Super Round (main stadium)

Venezuela 12, Dominican Republic 2

Japan 2, Chinese Taipei 1

USA 5, Canada 1

Consolation Round (Field II)

Cuba 10, Netherlands 1

Korea 15, Hong Kong 5 (6 inn.)

Australia 10, Puerto Rico 3

Thursday's schedule of games

Super Round (Main stadium)

Japan 10, Venezuela 0

Chinese Taipei 6, Canada 4

USA 8, Dominican Republic 1

Consolation Round (Field II)

Hong Kong 4, Netherlands 1

Cuba 6, Puerto Rico 5

Australia 7, Korea 1

Friday's games

Bronze medal game: Canada 8, USA 5 (10 inn.)

World Cup final: Japan 6, Chinese Taipei 0

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The Hong Kong team celebrates at the end of the game. Sunday action of the 8-5 Hong Kong victory over Cuba in the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Championships being held in Viera, Fl.(Photo: TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY)

Day 6

Two makeup games were on tap Monday.

Chinese Taipei hammered the Netherlands 11-1 and locked up Group A after beating the USA the previous night. Ya-Ling Tsai and Ming-Chen Tsai each drove in two runs.

Venezuela outlasted Puerto Rico 9-6 in the other game even though getting out-hit 13-4. The bottom of the order sparked the win, with the ninth batter, Maigleth DeLourdes Torres Antiveros driving in two runs, and the sixth and seventh batters, Migreily Anahis Angulo Alejos and Yohelis Colina Riera, each scoring twice.

The Hong Kong team celebrates at the end of the game. Sunday action of the 8-5 Hong Kong victory over Cuba in the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Championships being held in Viera, Fl. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Camera crews shooting for the WBSC YouTube channel, which is broadcasting the games live. Sunday action of the 8-5 Hong Kong victory over Cuba in the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Championships being held in Viera, Fl. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Members of the Cuban team in the dugout during the 7th inning of the game. Sunday action of the 8-5 Hong Kong victory over Cuba in the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Championships being held in Viera, Fl. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

One of the Cuba team’s players in gthe dugout. Sunday action of the 8-5 Hong Kong victory over Cuba in the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Championships being held in Viera, Fl. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

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Day 4

Team USA won its toughest game to date in the tournament, beating a tough Venezuela squad 3-1 Saturday afternoon in the main stadium.

Jade Gortarez hit a two-run single in the second inning and Megan Baltzell homered to deep right field in the top of the seventh..

Baltzell leads the tournament with 10 RBI and a .700 batting average.

Meggie Meidlinger closed it out in the seventh.

The USA, outscorimg its opponents 46-2, won its fourth straight game and sets up Sunday's pool play finale against Chinese Taipei at 6 p.m.

The Dominican Republic clobbered Hong Kong 19-1, rapping 15 hits in the five-inning game. Yocaria Guerrero Gonzalez hit one of her team's three triples and drove in four runs. Windelly Eliana Ramirez Miller and Melissa Rodriguez each had three hits.

Puerto Rico blasted the Netherlands 16-1 in five innings. Angelis Rivera got the win by going four innings and allowing only one hit.

Japan defeated Cuba 4-1 as Ami Sakahara and Rina Taniyama combined on a one-hitter..Iori Miura drove in three runs with a pair of hits.

Canada defeated Australia 9-6 with a 16-hit attack. Jenna Flannigan had three hits, including two doubles. Five other players had two hits. Anne-Sophie Lavallee closed it out with 2.2 innings of two-hit relief.

Day 3

Apparently, the only things that can stop Team USA are lightning and rain. For the third straight night, its game was delayed by storms, but once it got going, so did the Americans.

Team USA defeated Korea 11-1 and now have outscored their opponents 43-1 in three games.

Catcher Anna Kimbrell drove in four runs with three hits (two doubles) as the No. 8 batter in the lineup. Malaika Underwood and Megan Baltzell each drove in two runs.

Japan edged Canada late Friday 2-1 in a battle of top-ranked teams. The top-ranked team had only two hits but still managed to pull out the big win.

Reigning MVP Ayami Sato fanned seven in six innings, scattering six hits. Akino Tanaka allowed two hits in her one inning of relief.

Two other games earlier were suspended after a two-hour delay and were moved to Monday (see below).

Cuba's Claudia Jorge Fajardo collides with teammate Dayanna Batista Vega (5) as they chase a fly ball during their game against Canada Thursday, August 23, 2018 in the Women's Baseball World Cup in Viera, FL Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY

Canada's Veronica Boyd slides safe into home before Yordanka Rodriguez Leon can get the relay throw during their game in Viera, FL, Thursday, August 23, 2018 in the Women's Baseball World Cup Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY

Claudia Jorge Fajardo of Cuba dives for a bad throw and Canada's Nicole Luchanski slides into second during their game Thursday, August 23, 2018 in the Women's Baseball World Cup Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY

Cuba's Claudia Jorge Fajardo collides with teammate Dayanna Batista Vega (5) as they chase a fly ball during their game against Canada Thursday, August 23, 2018 in the Women's Baseball World Cup in Viera, FL Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY

Venezuela, one of the early favorites, posted its first win, 10-4, over Korea.

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Daphne Gelinas of Canada puts the ball in play during Thursday's game against Cuba. (Photo: Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY)

Canada defeated Cuba 10-7 for its second straight win.

The Dominican Republic defeated Australia 9-6 for their first-ever win in the World Cup. In that game, a three-run sixth inning broke a 6-6 tie as Lidenny Camilo and Windeily Ramirez hit back-to-back doubles and Johanna Bakli followed with an RBI single.

Late in the evening, Puerto Rico defeated Chinese Taipei 9-6.

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The opening ceremonies of the Women's Baseball World Cup were canceled Wednesday evening after lightning and rain hit the area at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, delaying the USA's first game. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time being held in the United States. Twelve teams from around the world are competing.(Photo: Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY)

Opening Day

The USA scored 11 runs in the first inning and three more in the second of its opening game against Puerto Rico on Wednesday night and won 14-0 at the USSSA Sports Complex in Viera on the first day of the Women's Baseball World Cup. The game was halted after five innings.

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AJ Hamilton cheers teammates Brittany Gomez and Megan Meidlinger as they come in to score. After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

The opening ceremonies of the Women's Baseball World Cup were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, delaying the first game. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and nthe first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. AP/Malcolm Denemark/Florida Today Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

People heading to the opening ceremonies of the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, delaying the first game. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. AP/Malcolm Denemark/Florida Today Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

Both teams stand for the National Anthems of both countries. After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

Danny McNight thew out the first pitch. After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

Zayas Rodriguez had a rough night as starting pitcher for Puerto Rico. After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

USA with the bases loaded. After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

Malaika Underwood, who just scoered, congratulates AJ Hamilton as she scores. After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

A.J. Hamilton and Malaika Underwood get congrtatulated from their teammates after scoring. After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

USA pitcher Stacy Piagno hurls one towards the plate. After the opening ceremonies for the Women's Baseball World Cup that were cancelled Wednesday evening from lightning and rain, the game between USA and Puerto Rico started at 7:30 in the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Florida, with the first inning ending with USA up 11-0. It is the 8th edition of the biennial games and the first time in the United States. 12 teams from around the world are competing. Malcolm Denemark, Malcolm Denemark/FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

USA pitcher and kindergarten teacher Stacy Piagno. Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

USA’s Malaika Underwood. Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Foul ball in the stands. Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Opening night USA vs.Puerto Rico at the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. A storm and nearby lightning canceled the opening ceremony, but the evening game at the USSSA Sports Complex Stadium went on as scheduled, despite the occasional rain. The USA won the game 14-0. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Kindergarten teacher Stacy Piagno of St. Augustine pitched a four-hitter.

Malaika Underwood hit a two-run triple and finished with three RBIs, as did teammates AJ Hamilton and Megan Beltzell.

Earlier in the day, five-time defending champion Japan cruised past the Dominican Republic 8-0. Rina Taniyama allowed three hits in six innings, and reigning World Cup MVP Ayami Sato struck out the size in the seventh. Iori Miura's triple was the big hit for Japan.

A lightning storm cut short the game between Canada and Hong Kong. The game was called in the middle of the fifth (still an official game) with Canada ahead 4-0. Anne Sophie Lavallée pitched five innings of no-hit ball for Canada, allowing four walks and striking out four. Nicole Luchanski and Katherine Psota both had two hits for Canada.

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Baseball star Ayami Sato, pitcher for Japan, is considered the world’s best female baseball player, according to Baseball America. Japan has won the championship for the last five years. Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Players and managers at the August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. 12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. The defending champ is Japan, whose team has taken the trophy the last five years. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Sports media gathered for the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

She’s got her eyes on the prize. Ayami Sato, pitcher for Japan, is considered the world’s best female baseball player, according to Baseball America. She is making a humorous pose near the 2018 trophy. Japan has won the championship for the last five years. Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Players and team managers gave interviews at the August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. 12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. The defending champ is Japan, whose team has taken the trophy the last five years. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. The defending champ is Japan, whose team has taken the trophy the last five years. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. The defending champ is Japan, whose team has taken the trophy the last five years. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Brevard County, Fl. is ready for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup. 12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Japan’s Team Manager Megumi Kitta. In the backgroud is Ayami Sato, pitcher for Japan, which has won the championship for the last five years. Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. The defending champ is Japan, whose team has taken the trophy the last five years. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

Team managers and players cheer for the cameras. Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. The defending champ is Japan, whose team has taken the trophy the last five years. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

A bird perches on the statue of Casey at the Bat, at the stadium where the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup will have 12 teams from around the world in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

A bird perches on the statue of Casey at the Bat, at the stadium where the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup will have 12 teams from around the world in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY

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She’s got her eyes on the prize. Ayami Sato, pitcher for Japan, is considered the world’s best female baseball player, according to Baseball America. She is making a humorous pose near the 2018 trophy. Japan has won the championship for the last five years. Scenes from the Tuesday, August 21 press conference for the 2018 WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup.12 teams from around the world will compete in the 10 day tournament at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera, Fl. This is the first time that a world championship has been held in the United States. (Photo: TIM SHORTT/ FLORIDA TODAY)

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